Blackheath student Ben Weller’s elaborate woodwork has been selected among “exemplary” major projects from HSC design and technology to be part of the annual Shape Exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum. Ben, who attended Lithgow High School and was vice-captain last year, achieved a Band 6 mark in his design and technology course. But despite his obvious talents, he is taking a completely different career path and will study for a Bachelor of Paramedicine at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst this year. Ben worked many hours to create his Butsudan, which is a Japanese Buddhist shrine found in temples and homes in Japanese Buddhist cultures. The doors enclose and protect a Gohonzon or religious icon. He said he was very grateful to have had the support and dedication of his teacher, Mr Jeff Monaghan. Shape 2018 opens at the Powerhouse Museum, Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences on February 22 and runs until May 5.